Supreme Court Orders Closure of Non-Compliant Industries in Agra
The Supreme Court of India has ordered the closure of non-compliant industries in Agra, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to environmental regulations in the Taj Trapezium area. The case involved the Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL), which sought relief regarding the supply of natural gas to local industries. The court had previously directed GAIL to begin gas supply by June 1997, with full compliance expected by December 1998. However, by the end of 1998, only 115 out of 168 consumers had contacted GAIL for gas supply, with 79 cupola-based iron foundries failing to comply.
The court noted that many industries were awaiting technology from the National Metallurgical Laboratory (NML) to convert to natural gas, which was still under development. The delay in conversion raised serious concerns about air quality in the Taj Trapezium area, prompting the court to issue notices to non-compliant industries. The court found that continued use of coal and coke posed a significant environmental risk.
In its final decision, the court directed the immediate closure of 53 non-compliant iron foundries and mandated that 29 non-cupola industries accept gas supply by September 15, 1999, or face closure. For 78 cupola-based industries, the court enforced compliance with the gas supply directive effective from the same date, allowing temporary closure until they could convert to natural gas. The court also addressed issues related to Zones II and III, directing the Union of India to review expert reports on the laying of gas pipelines.
The decision underscored the balance between industrial operations and environmental protection, emphasizing the urgency of addressing pollution in the Taj Trapezium area. The court's directive highlights the critical need for industries to comply with environmental regulations to mitigate pollution and safeguard the region's air quality.